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Our story
A traditional karate club, in the south of Perth, since 2001
Traditional Karate Academy was established by Sensei Maurice Matteucci in 2001, and recognised by the Australian Karate Federation in March 2002. We focus on the study and practice of Shito-Ryu karate across our dojos in Perth's southern suburbs, with classes for adults and children from beginner to advanced levels.
Our story
One dojo, then three
Sensei Maurice founded TKA after three decades of practice and teaching across three major karate styles. What started as one dojo has grown into a club training kids, teens and adults across Yangebup, Aubin Grove and Piara Waters, with the same focus throughout: real technique, real discipline, and steady personal progress, taught at a pace that suits each student.
We are not a seasonal sport. Karate is a year-round practice, and our students keep training and improving through every term.
What it means
What "traditional" means here
People ask what "traditional" karate actually is. Karate is barely a hundred years old, so "traditional" is not really about age. It is about lineage and intent. We teach karate as it was handed down to us, with minimal change, rather than inventing our own version of it. There are refinements passed down from our grandmaster in Japan, but we do not alter the art to suit ourselves.
We also believe competition has a place. The lessons, challenges and personal achievements that come from competing help our students progress, which is why we run a competition squad alongside our regular classes.
Style & lineage
Our style and lineage
We practise Shito-Ryu karate and Kobudo (Okinawan weapons), the latter taught from green belt through to black belt. Our lineage runs through Master Hayashi (Hayashi-Ha Shito-Ryu) and Master Kenei Mabuni, via Sensei Con Kassis. Sensei Maurice is an international kata and kumite referee and a senior kata coach with the WA Karate Federation.
Honest gradings
No fast black belts
We hold gradings three times a year and black belt gradings once a year, but gradings are not compulsory. We do not guarantee anyone a rank. Earning a black belt is rare and depends on the individual: showing up regularly, training diligently, and avoiding serious injury. Be wary of clubs that promise a fast black belt.
Trust
Recognised and accountable
AKF / Karate Australia
Recognised since March 2002.
World Karate Federation
Affiliated.
World Shito-Ryu
Karate Federation affiliated.
Working with Children
Checks held by instructors.